Lescott asks for move to Manchester City

Everton defender Joleon Lescott will write to Toffees chairman Bill Kenwright in a bold attempt to force through a move to Premier League rivals Manchester City.

The England centre-back is the latest transfer target for Mark Hughes' big spending club, who have already seen bids of £15m and £18m rejected by Goodison Park chiefs.

Everton manager David Moyes is determined not to sell one of his best players to a club he will battle for position with next season, but Lescott is eager to head to Eastlands.

The 26-year-old would double his £40,000-per-week wages at City but Moyes, backed by Kenwright, is standing firm and only an astronomical transfer offer would persuade Everton to sell.

On Monday, Moyes signed £2.5m Switzerland centre-back Philippe Senderos from Arsenal, but that deal was to provide cover for injured defender Phil Jagielka, not to prepare the way for Lescott's departure.

City boss Hughes will renew his interest in Porto centre-back Bruno Alves if Lescott fails to force through a transfer.